Southern Living In Maryland

We recently had an opportunity to meet Evelyn who needed our help with just one room.    She was preparing her home for a gathering and was stuck on the family room.  When we first met with her, we were instantly drawn to her gracious demeanor and something I don’t see often these days  - true southern hospitality and grace.   I’m not sure if Evelyn is from the southern states, but she grew up in an era when officers’ wives organized events,  were deeply committed to social welfare, and of course, hosted parties at heir homes.   It was a great pleasure to meet Miss Evelyn.  When we first walked into her home, it was almost as if we were walking into a Southern Living magazine layout.

a lovely but lonely tobacco jar

a beautiful arrangement inspired by Williamsburg

 

 

 

Then there was the centerpiece on the dining room table.  It was pretty to start with, but I thought it could be even more beautiful.

 

 

centerpiece before

By adding some magnolias, clusters of berries and a dozen or so stems of various florals, here is what it looks like now:

centerpiece after

 One of our greatest finds was a gilded mirror still packed in a moving box and stored in the garage.   I absolutely had to find a home for the mirror.   Call me practical or even predictable, but I think foyers and entry ways should always have a mirror.  People may not want to admit it, but everyone likes to check themselves out before opening the door for guests or upon entering a home.    This  mirror was perfect for the entry.

foyer before

 

This gorgeous mirror is perfect for the foyer

I could have spent all day finding fun little projects to play with, but our main purpose for being at Evelyn’s home was the family room.   There were alot of great things to play with, but it just didn’t seem to be at the same level of  “put together” as the rest of the home. 

family room before

family room before

A few changes such as moving the seating around, changing the area rug and adding some artwork made a difference.  One of the ideas Evelyn had was to frame her collection of White House and other collectible ornaments.  I’m stealing that idea    After we played “furniture around the world”  – that’s what we call it when we move furniture around and around until it fits the room well – we then set out to decorate and accessorize.

a collection of art and framed ornaments

family room after

family room after

It didn’t seem like much compared to some of the homes we work with, but for Evelyn, it was perfect.  She said so herself!  All we did is find a few great pieces and added them to her already established collection of art and accessories.  I’ve always loved the Swan Panels and was waiting for the perfect home – this was it.  Adding black accents such as the Jamil clock  and the Swan Panels to the colorful mix of burgundy helped create a more cozy and elegant feel.

Thank you Miss Evelyn!  We truly enjoyed meeting you and playing in your home!  Tell us what you think –  We always enjoy hearing from our readers.  Happy decorating!  Kate